One African Grey Parrot took the ‘jungle’ in jungle gym literally when it decided to join the children at play.
Mossel Bay, South Africa (14 May 2025) — Animals in Mossel Bay have been snapped in unexpected places recently thanks to Michael de Nobrega. First, a sheep strolling on the beach like a scene straight out of ‘Baawatch’; now a parrot who went to join children at play on a jungle gym. We’re not sure what’s in the air in Mossel Bay this May, but we’re here for all of it.
In the case of the parrot, it seems the bird might have taken the ‘jungle’ in jungle gym literally when it decided to investigate the play-place. To the bird’s disappointment, jungle gyms have very little in common with actual jungles. But, they are a great place for friendships, and in this bird’s case, a rescue.
According to Michael, the sighting happened at The Point on Mother’s Day.
“I came across an African Grey Parrot on the jungle gym, happily interacting with a few children. Not something you see every day, so I snapped a few pics!”
According to the photographer, no owner could be found nearby. And, as much fun as we’re sure the African Grey was having, one foul move on the playground could’ve meant trouble for the bird. As such, Michael and an unnamed Good Samaritan woman joined forces to catch the playground parrot; hoping to reunite the bird with its family.
Parrots are curious animals by nature; but African Greys are prone to anxious tendencies. Separation from their owners can be hugely distressing, so it meant all hands on deck to get the bird home safe and sound.
Thanks to the power of social media, Michael learned that the parrot had gone missing the previous morning and managed to find the owner.
This made for an extra-special Mother’s Day for one Renette Lombard, who was reunited with her feathered baby. Though, we might suggest the bird’s family consider creating a mini jungle gym for at home, perhaps to curb those playful curiosities once and for all.
by 